eduKateSG · Why Science?
Find the exact science book, report or media edition and the library that can supply it
Use WorldCat through works, editions, formats, OCLC numbers, bibliographic records, holdings, languages, access options and library hand-offs.
Scientific learning depends on more than journal articles. Books, technical reports, conference proceedings, maps, datasets, software and audiovisual materials can preserve methods, history and explanation that a short paper cannot. WorldCat helps readers discover these resources through library-contributed records and holdings.
OCLC describes WorldCat as a bibliographic catalogue with e-resource holdings and library-location information. Search interfaces can group editions and formats of a work so readers see related manifestations without assuming that every translation, revision or file is identical.
Did you know? A library holding means that a library has reported a copy or licensed access associated with a bibliographic record. It does not promise that the item is on the shelf now, freely downloadable or available to every visitor.
This guide follows a resource from work-level discovery to the exact edition and a local access option. That sequence protects citations, quotations and scientific interpretation from edition mix-ups.
Chapter index
Chapters 1–9: works, editions and bibliographic identity
- 1. WorldCat is built through library cooperation
- 2. A work is the intellectual creation
- 3. An edition is a particular manifestation
- 4. Edition clustering supports exploration
- 5. Translations deserve exact identification
- 6. Formats can change the reading object
- 7. The OCLC number identifies a bibliographic record
- 8. ISBNs distinguish many monograph editions
- 9. A holding links a library to a record
Chapters 10–17: holdings, access, clustering and verification
- 10. Location is not immediate availability
- 11. Local data refines the shared record
- 12. Access options connect discovery to fulfilment
- 13. Search facets shape the visible set
- 14. Subjects and classifications support browsing
- 15. Records can be corrected and merged
- 16. Holdings counts are not readership counts
- 17. Library-discovery skills support careers
Library discovery works when the intellectual work, a particular edition and a library holding are kept distinct. OCLC member libraries contribute bibliographic records and indicate holdings for resources they own or license. The shared database reflects ongoing cataloguing and maintenance. This turns a broad catalogue result into a practical route to the exact resource.
Try this
Evidence question: Which library or record supplied this description? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Treat contributor and update information as provenance. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Keep the identifier, retrieval date and source page in the note so the route can be repeated.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for worldcat is built through library cooperation, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
WorldCat brings together bibliographic records and location information contributed by libraries. The work level gathers the broad creative or intellectual entity, such as a scientific book or report, across related manifestations. Work-level discovery is not yet an edition citation. It also helps students avoid citing a different edition from the one they read.
Try this
Evidence question: What remains constant across the versions? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Write a work-level title and creator statement. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. If a field is missing, write “not shown” and follow the official documentation rather than inventing a value.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for a work is the intellectual creation, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
Edition clustering helps readers explore versions, languages and formats, but the selected record still matters. Publisher, date, language, revision, format and pagination can differ among editions. Those differences may change the evidence or locator. Library cooperation makes science books, reports and media more discoverable.
Try this
Evidence question: Which edition did you actually read? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Capture edition statement, publisher, year and format. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Before comparing two records, check that their object types, methods, versions and units really align.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for an edition is a particular manifestation, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
A holding indicates that a library reports access to an item; it does not describe every licence or shelf condition. OCLC algorithms group related editions and expressions using bibliographic features such as names, title and format. Clustering helps browsing and can require record-level checking. A reproducible note preserves the OCLC record, edition and access route.
Try this
Evidence question: Does this candidate belong to the same work? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Compare creators, titles, dates, language and contents. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Finish by naming one supported statement and one stronger statement that still needs another evidence layer.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for edition clustering supports exploration, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
Library discovery works when the intellectual work, a particular edition and a library holding are kept distinct. A translation can differ in language, translator, edition and publication context. It should not inherit page numbers or wording from another manifestation. This turns a broad catalogue result into a practical route to the exact resource.
Try this
Evidence question: Which language and translator apply? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Cite the translated edition that supplied the text. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Keep the identifier, retrieval date and source page in the note so the route can be repeated.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for translations deserve exact identification, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
WorldCat brings together bibliographic records and location information contributed by libraries. Print, ebook, audiobook, microform, map, video and digital resources may share work identity while offering different content structures or access terms. It also helps students avoid citing a different edition from the one they read.
Try this
Evidence question: Which format supports your task? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Choose the format before requesting the item. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. If a field is missing, write “not shown” and follow the official documentation rather than inventing a value.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for formats can change the reading object, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
CHAPTER 7 OF 17 · Choose an edition
7. The OCLC number identifies a bibliographic record
Edition clustering helps readers explore versions, languages and formats, but the selected record still matters. An OCLC control number routes to a specific WorldCat bibliographic record. It is not the same as an ISBN, DOI or local call number. Library cooperation makes science books, reports and media more discoverable.
Try this
Evidence question: Which system owns this identifier? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Store OCLC number, ISBN and DOI in separate fields. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Before comparing two records, check that their object types, methods, versions and units really align.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for the oclc number identifies a bibliographic record, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
A holding indicates that a library reports access to an item; it does not describe every licence or shelf condition. Books and reports may carry ISBNs tied to particular products or formats. Older works and other resource types may not have one. A reproducible note preserves the OCLC record, edition and access route.
Try this
Evidence question: Does this ISBN match the edition in hand? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Check the title page and copyright page. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Finish by naming one supported statement and one stronger statement that still needs another evidence layer.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for isbns distinguish many monograph editions, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
Library discovery works when the intellectual work, a particular edition and a library holding are kept distinct. WorldCat holdings indicate that a library reports a copy or licensed access associated with the record. Holdings can change as collections evolve. This turns a broad catalogue result into a practical route to the exact resource.
Try this
Evidence question: Which library currently reports access? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Check the library catalogue again before travelling. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Keep the identifier, retrieval date and source page in the note so the route can be repeated.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for a holding links a library to a record, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
WorldCat brings together bibliographic records and location information contributed by libraries. An item can be checked out, in storage, reference-only, restricted or available electronically under licence. WorldCat directs users toward access options while the library supplies current terms. It also helps students avoid citing a different edition from the one they read.
Try this
Evidence question: Can this reader use the item now? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Open the local catalogue and read status and eligibility. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. If a field is missing, write “not shown” and follow the official documentation rather than inventing a value.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for location is not immediate availability, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
Edition clustering helps readers explore versions, languages and formats, but the selected record still matters. Libraries can display local call numbers, shelving locations, notes and holdings summaries alongside shared bibliographic data. Local fields should not be projected onto every library. Library cooperation makes science books, reports and media more discoverable.
Try this
Evidence question: Which detail is local? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Separate global description from local availability. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Before comparing two records, check that their object types, methods, versions and units really align.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for local data refines the shared record, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
CHAPTER 12 OF 17 · Read the holding
12. Access options connect discovery to fulfilment
A holding indicates that a library reports access to an item; it does not describe every licence or shelf condition. WorldCat Discovery can present physical and electronic access routes, other holdings and links. The best route depends on institution, location and licence. A reproducible note preserves the OCLC record, edition and access route.
Try this
Evidence question: Which route applies to this user? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Record library, branch, link and access date. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Finish by naming one supported statement and one stronger statement that still needs another evidence layer.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for access options connect discovery to fulfilment, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
Library discovery works when the intellectual work, a particular edition and a library holding are kept distinct. Format, year, language, author and other refinements help narrow results. Each filter excludes records and belongs in the method. This turns a broad catalogue result into a practical route to the exact resource.
Try this
Evidence question: Which facet selected this edition? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Save the query and active refinements. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Keep the identifier, retrieval date and source page in the note so the route can be repeated.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for search facets shape the visible set, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
CHAPTER 14 OF 17 · Reach the library
14. Subjects and classifications support browsing
WorldCat brings together bibliographic records and location information contributed by libraries. Library subject headings and classification numbers connect related materials. Cataloguing vocabularies support discovery but do not summarise the scientific argument. It also helps students avoid citing a different edition from the one they read.
Try this
Evidence question: Which subject term opened a useful route? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Follow the heading, then read the table of contents. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. If a field is missing, write “not shown” and follow the official documentation rather than inventing a value.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for subjects and classifications support browsing, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
Edition clustering helps readers explore versions, languages and formats, but the selected record still matters. Collaborative cataloguing includes quality control, duplicate resolution and record updates. A changed or merged OCLC record can affect saved links and counts. Library cooperation makes science books, reports and media more discoverable.
Try this
Evidence question: Has the record identity changed? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Resolve the current record before final citation. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Before comparing two records, check that their object types, methods, versions and units really align.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for records can be corrected and merged, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
A holding indicates that a library reports access to an item; it does not describe every licence or shelf condition. The number of reporting libraries describes collection presence, not copies sold, people who read the work or scientific influence. A reproducible note preserves the OCLC record, edition and access route.
Try this
Evidence question: What exactly is being counted? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Rewrite the metric with its correct unit. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Finish by naming one supported statement and one stronger statement that still needs another evidence layer.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for holdings counts are not readership counts, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
Library discovery works when the intellectual work, a particular edition and a library holding are kept distinct. Scientists, librarians, historians, data curators and educators use edition-aware discovery to obtain authoritative sources. This turns a broad catalogue result into a practical route to the exact resource.
Try this
Evidence question: Which decision depends on the exact edition? Answer in three parts: identify the visible field or file, explain how it bears on the question, and state the boundary of that evidence. Preserve the database’s own object names and accession rather than flattening everything into the word ‘data’.
Try this: Build a WorldCat-to-library request receipt. Turn the result into a compact claim-evidence-reasoning note, then ask a partner to retrace it. Keep the identifier, retrieval date and source page in the note so the route can be repeated.
Evidence checkpoint
Record the evidence object for library-discovery skills support careers, its identifier or version context, and one limit that must remain visible.
Contents · Previous chapter · Continue at the Science Learning Hub
Choose the edition before you quote, calculate or cite
WorldCat connects the intellectual work with bibliographic editions, formats and the libraries that report access. Its value comes from cooperative discovery and a clear hand-off to the selected library.
Save the work title, creator, edition, language, publisher, year, format, OCLC number, ISBN or DOI, holding library, local access route and retrieval date. Then cite the exact item you used.
| Reading object | What it can support | Question to keep visible |
|---|---|---|
| Work | Intellectual creation across related versions | Which edition supports the claim? |
| Edition record | Specific publication and format | Do year, language and pagination match? |
| OCLC number | WorldCat bibliographic record identity | Which ISBN or DOI also applies? |
| Holding | Library-reported access relationship | What is the current local status? |
Sources and next reading
Substantive resource claims in this article were checked against the primary pages below. A structured record is a route into evidence; it does not by itself prove a scientific conclusion. Recheck the live record, evidence labels and release context before using it in assessed work or research.
For a classroom enquiry, save a short research receipt containing the question, search terms, selected object, exact identifier, version, access date and the evidence boundary you observed. Add the file or page that supports each statement. This small routine turns browsing into accountable science learning and gives a teacher, classmate or future analyst a route they can independently follow.
Before sharing the conclusion, ask another reader to retrace the route without verbal hints. If they reach a different version, file or interpretation, improve the receipt and narrow the claim. Reproducibility begins with this practical check. It teaches careful reading, supports fair collaboration and keeps uncertainty visible while evidence moves from an online service into notes, analysis and a final explanation.
A useful final review separates five questions. What object was found? Which organisation or repository maintains it? What exact evidence was inspected? Which statement does that evidence support? What remains uncertain? Answer each question in one sentence, then connect every answer to a visible field, file or source page. This review catches common mistakes: citing a collection when a file supplied the value, treating the newest release as the analysed release, confusing permission with scientific suitability, or turning a discovery count into a conclusion. It also gives students a calm way to improve work. A missing detail becomes a next research step instead of an invitation to guess. When the route is complete, the final explanation can stay simple because the identifiers, dates, versions, limitations and supporting evidence are already organised underneath it.
Primary sources
- WorldCat overview — accessed 25 October 2026.
- How works enter WorldCat — accessed 25 October 2026.
- WorldCat search results and editions — accessed 25 October 2026.
- WorldCat work ontology — accessed 25 October 2026.
- WorldCat holdings guidance — accessed 25 October 2026.